Why do metals conduct electricity?
Metals conduct electricity because they have delocalised electrons that are free to move through the structure and carry charge.
GCSE Chemistry
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
In more detail
In a metal, the outer electrons are delocalised and form a "sea" of free electrons around positive metal ions. When a voltage is applied, these delocalised electrons drift through the metal, carrying charge — so the metal conducts electricity. The same free electrons also make metals good conductors of heat.
Key points for the exam
- Metallic bonding: positive ions in a sea of delocalised electrons.
- The delocalised electrons are free to move and carry charge.
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